The University of Chicago’s Energy Team was interested in adding DCKV controls to multiple dining halls on campus The systems would require a turnkey installation, and many design considerations to handle this retrofit application. The DCKV controls needed to integrate into the dining hall's existing building automation system along with having a solution for sections of the kitchens with multiple hoods on a single fan.
The ECOAZUR® system was selected at each of the dining halls due to its ability to maximize the energy savings potential, customizable design, and KES’ ability to handle the project's turnkey and assist on available utility rebates. Hybrid style ECOAZUR® systems were designed at both Bartlett and Cathey dining halls where a single processor panel is able to control some hoods requiring modulating dampers and some without. Nine kitchen hoods on a single fan is no problem for the ECOAZUR® system! The flexibility of the modulating damper installation made this retrofit simple – even when part of the dining hall used to be a gymnasium and features difficult access above the kitchen hoods. All systems were implemented on time, on budget, and with no downtime to the university.